News Release
Heintzeman-Led Environment Bill Passes, Delivering Long-Awaited Permitting Reform
St. Paul, MN – Representative Josh Heintzeman (R-Nisswa), Co-Chair of the House Environment Finance and Policy Committee, announced the successful passage of the 2025 Environment Budget Bill, a key component of this year’s special legislative session.
“This is a win for Minnesotans,” said Heintzeman. “From sportsmen and trail users to job creators and local communities, this bill delivers meaningful improvements that have been years in the making.”
At the center of the legislation is long-overdue permitting reform. The bill streamlines environmental permitting processes without sacrificing Minnesota’s high environmental standards. These changes will help reduce costly delays, cut through unnecessary red tape, and provide a real boost to our economy while continuing to protect the state’s natural resources.
“This is the most significant step we’ve taken on permitting reform in well over a decade,” said Heintzeman. “We’re keeping strong environmental protections in place, while making the process more efficient and accountable. It’s a balanced approach that reflects the needs of both our environment and our economy.”
In addition to permitting reform, the bill expands hunting and fishing access, invests in ATV trails, and creates new opportunities to restore local trails and fight aquatic invasive species by unlocking future access to lottery proceeds.
“I’m grateful for the trust placed in me as Co-Chair of the Environment Committee and proud of what we were able to accomplish,” Heintzeman added. “There is still more to do but this is a great foundation to build on going into next session.”
For more information, contact Rep. Heintzeman’s office.
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